Cybersecurity bootcamps currently grow in popularity. The question is, “are cybersecurity bootcamps worth it?” Read on to find the answer.
What Are Cybersecurity Bootcamps?
The first thing that most people think of when they hear the word “bootcamp” is army training. That is not what we’re going to discuss here. However, military bootcamps and cybersecurity bootcamps have one thing in common – they will get you into fighting shape within a few weeks.
Cybersecurity bootcamps are all about learning industry-grade cybersecurity skills through comprehensive coursework. They have grown in popularity as it gives individuals a quick means to obtain a quality education, usually around six months. Furthermore, bootcamps are flexible and affordable.
However, many people are asking “are cybersecurity bootcamps worth it?” Well, that question may seem reasonable. Bootcamps promise to prepare aspiring (but inexperienced) cyber specialists for an entry-level position within a few months. Read on to see if the programs hold up to the hype.
How Are Cybersecurity Bootcamps Designed?
Typically, these programs prepare you for entry-level cybersecurity jobs. Furthermore, bootcamps often accept students regardless of their experience level. However, self-taught techies, new graduates, or mid-level IT professionals wanting a career switch will benefit the most from these programs.
The duration of these programs may range from three to six months. It will depend on the topics covered and the learner’s schedule. However, many learning institutions offer flexible scheduling. Moreover, they provide full-time, part-time, in-person, or virtual learning setups.
Usually, security experts with more than a decade of experience in the field design the curricula. You’ll learn the latest technologies, tools, and protocols at a relatively low cost.
Skill Level Required
Again, this will depend on the program you choose. You’ll find many cybersecurity bootcamps for absolute beginners. These may include people with no knowledge of IT, networking, or operating systems. Such programs may only require a high school diploma.
However, you must assess whether you can master the coursework enough to land a job after graduation. Moreover, think if you need some time before the course to prepare for the lectures and assignments you’ll receive.
In many cases, it might be helpful for beginners to take a few foundational coding and security courses. Yet, doing so is typically not required for beginner-friendly programs.
There are also intermediate programs for individuals familiar with IT fundamentals. These programs may require network certifications and several years of IT experience as prerequisites.
Meanwhile, bootcamps designed for advanced learners cover the most tricky concepts, such as:
- Penetration testing
- Ethical hacking
- Application security testing
Do Employers Take Graduates Seriously?
Employers currently face an overwhelming need for fresh talent. All companies that store data need specialists to stay ahead of digital threats. This dire need just means that employers are very much willing to consider bootcamp graduates for entry-level roles.
In other words, employers are desperate. Employers will hire highly qualified individuals regardless of where they gained their skills. It’s that simple.
Researchers for Indeed surveyed hiring managers, and 99.8% of them who have hired boot camp grads would do so again. So are cybersecurity bootcamps worth it? The answer is a resounding yes.
